It’s almost time for the autumn and winter sports seasons to begin so I hope you have been working out this summer. No one wants to be the weakest link during a football game or a wrestling tournament. You definitely don’t want to be the weakest link on team sports, which are also very individualized, like wrestling or indoor track.

Building muscle is not just for fitness models and body builders, increasing your strength and stamina is imperative for all athletes. There are many reasons to want to gain weight and bulk up. Most routines to build muscles and gain weight involve free weights, machine weights, or some other resistance.

Free weights are perhaps the most historical way to build muscle, although kettlebells and weight machines are also popular. Using barbells and dumbbells will be very effective tools to build muscles and gain weight.

The routines have one thing in common – they use heavy resistance to build muscle mass and gain weight. Muscle mass increase is proportional to workload. If you work your muscles hard, they will get bigger. You will often see the quickest increases during the first months after you start.

A good program will help you gain weight and decrease body fat. Build muscles gradually. A gradual program gives your muscles, tendons, ligament, and internal organs time to adjust and compensate as you gain weight.

Your campaign to build muscle should be as enjoyable as playing a pickup game of softball, basketball, or soccer. Because people stick with things they enjoy, you will be more motivated to stay with it.

Even if you have started late this season, record your results at monthly, quarterly, and six month intervals to see if you are hitting your goals and milestones.

When you start, find your choice of routines to gain weight and build muscles. Remember, a personalized training program on how to build muscle is essential for increasing mass. There are a variety of gyms, literature, DVDs, and equipment to choose from.

Follow this list to prevent unwanted common sports injuries like strains and soreness:

- Warm up and stretch before and after your workout

- Get plenty of rest between routines so your muscles can recover

- Eat a well rounded diet for vitamins, mineral, and nutrition

- Please consult your physician before starting any training program.

Getting bigger gives you power, a sense of fulfillment, and high level of confidence. The best way to build muscle and gain weight is to start a training workout that you enjoy and reach your target.